I use baby wipes for quick wipe downs, and since they don't disintegrate like Qtips can, I use baby wipe in little strips to thread through tight places and floss clean, sort of.
I do use a citrus degreaser...I apply it with a small paint brush to get it just where I want it, and not where I don't.
I also use mild bike wash in a spray bottle, and use a spray bottle of plain water for rinsing, when I'm not outside.
I have a variety of brushes, from large to small, and use different ones for the rims than I do for the drivetrain.
I find that a really nubby towel is great for the cassette.
I also keep alcohol and face pads handy for the rims.
I will use a hose outside when it is warm enough, but only with a nozzle that can produce a very broad, fine mist that has virtually NO pressure to it.
In the better weather when I'm riding all the time, I do a quick wipe down every time I ride (less than 5 minutes...basic frame, chain, rims, brake pads). Then, I do a regular wash every couple weeks. Then, every month or so I do a nit-picky clean. I realized I was doing OK with the cleaning when I apologized to my LBS for bringing the bike in dirty and they gave me really weird looks.
I have yet to take too much apart by myself, because I'm nervous about getting it back together. I need to get throught this barrier.
I enjoy detailing my bike the way I used to detail my horses. My brothers cannot understand why this does not carry over into detailing my car?
"The best rides are the ones where you bite off much more than you can chew, and live through it." ~ Doug Bradbury